Writing Assignment # 2: What is Reflective Learning?

Reflective learning is being able to look back upon the tasks and projects that you've completed and assess what you've learned as a result. This is an important task for anyone, but especially for writers and editors. It is vital to know how you learned, how it made you feel, and how it can help you in the future. Also, as an editor you must be able to know why a change needs to occur and how to convey that message to others. By reflecting upon what you've learned, you can become a better editor in the process.

The kind of writer I am...
Over the years I have figured out that I do my best work in the morning, as soon as I wake up. This way there is no clutter in my head and I am clear to work on a given project. I have figured out I do my best work in the morning because I am also a procrastinator. I consider this my biggest flaw, but oddly enough I kind of like this flaw. For some reason, working under pressure with a deadline down my neck helps me to stay focused. Even though it is stressful, it pushes me to create my best work because I am not focusing on anything else but the task at hand. I have gotten better about this since high school, but I still like it down to the wire.

I also like to work at the computer in, almost, complete silence. I do like the library because there is movement and some background noise, but it is still quiet enough to stay focused. Though sometimes I go to the computer last after writing freehand. I like to do this sometimes because then I can curl up on my couch and just write and do the organizing later. This is less stressful and I get all of my ideas on the page and choose which is best when I sit down to type.

I love writing introductions and conclusions. I have a somewhat gift when it comes to these two sections of papers. I have a way of tying them together and usually with a witty end. I really enjoy when I create a paper in this way. It gives it an interesting and fun end that ties any loose ends.

I am not completely sure what this says about me as a writer. I do know that I enjoy pressure, and the stress pushes me to produce one great document, usually. I am a perfectionist as well. I will write a paper and go back over it at least 3 more times until I can be satisfied with it. This helps to ensure that everything flows nicely and is understandable to others. I really pride myself in completing a great work, and will never settle for anything less.